Robert J. Lallos

Bob Lallos, born in the Bronx and raised in Queens, NY, was the beloved first child of Grace Maglio Lallos and Robert Joseph Lallos. When his father served in World War II, young Bobby was doted on not only by his mother Grace, but all 5 Maglio sisters. At age 5, Bob became an older brother to Billy and at 10 to his sister Linda. His Aunts, Uncles, and cousins were a big part of his childhood, gathering on many Sundays for Italian dinners.

When he was 15, Bob’s father died and he grew up quickly, feeling responsibility for the care of his younger siblings and his mom. That abiding sense of responsibility and stepping up for his family were his life’s mandates. After high school, Bob attended Queens College where he met the love of his life Ann Marie McManus. Bob and Ann wed in 1964 and celebrated 57 anniversaries together.

As a young husband, Bob worked at Ma Bell – the phone company that is now Verizon – as a switchman. He became a dad when daughter Laura was born in 1967, followed by Maureen three years later (often referred to affectionately as “D1” and “D2” by Bob). In 1972, Bob and Ann bought their first home and the Lallos family moved to Centereach, LI. Bob endured a long daily commute to Manhattan and worked tirelessly to support his family, earning regular promotions to retire as a high-level systems manager at Verizon. Bob excelled at his work and his passion for technology persisted through retirement. Bob’s friends always turned to him to update the website or fix the glitch.

Retirement brought Bob great joy – and frustration – in his newfound passion for golf. He loved his golfing buddies and took leadership roles (including updating those websites) in his cherished Emerald Golf Association. Golf and a growing irritation with cold weather led Bob to Weeki Wachee, FL where he wintered for several years. In 2019, he and Ann moved full time to The Heather Condominiums. He set up his computer in the sunroom, where he enjoyed taking in the view of the golf course and keeping an eye on the birds nesting at the course pond. His days were full with friendships and activities through his membership in the Fraternal Order of Eagles and the Loyal Order of Moose.

Bob also found great joy in being a grandfather. His first grandson dubbed him ‘Grandpa Bob’ and he is beloved by Aidan, Ciaran, Sean, Helen, and James as well as Maureen’s husband Christopher and Laura’s husband David. He also played a special role as Uncle Bob and adored his nieces and nephews.

Friends and family fondly recall Bob’s dry wit as well as his ability to make friends instantly and put all at ease in a social setting. Above all, we remember Bob as living his life by a gentleman’s code, ensuring that those he loved were cared for and upheld. He is deeply missed.

Bob regularly gave to the New York Firefighters Burn Center Foundation and the Sitar Arts Center, where Maureen is executive director.

Donations in his memory can be made to:
ww.nyffburncenter.com/Donate.aspx

Sitar Arts Center:
www.sitarartscenter.org/get-involved/donate/